Favorites:

Tuesday, December 28, 2010

The province of Ontario, Canada is one of the first jurisdictions in the world to ban pesticides for “cosmetic use.” (Cosmetic use refers to ornamental horticulture practiced professionally or by the homeowner.) The lawn care sector was the hardest hit and has gone from many years of prolonged growth to double digit losses. Tony DiGiovanni, executive director of Landscape Ontario Horticultural Trades Association, will tell the story of the ban from the perspective of 20 years on the “front lines” dealing with a strongly polarized emotional issue. He will also convey lessons learned and discuss what the industry is doing to try to adapt to this new reality.

The impact of drought conditions can be reduced with the use of wetting agents, which can reduce soil hydrophobicity, and increase water infiltration throughout the root–zone.

As a rule, wetting agents are designed for use on a PREVENTIVE basis, usually on a monthly schedule.

They may be beneficial not only to putting greens, but also to fairways.

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

2. Fertilization Practices

------------------------------

Nitrogen fertilization ―

An imbalanced fertilization will increase annual bluegrass’s susceptibility to Curvularia.

In particular, EXCESSIVE LEVELS OF NITROGEN will aggravate Curvularia attacks.

However, this warning to avoid excessive nitrogen use during the summer months is NOT meant to imply that nitrogen use should be suspended entirely.

The ADEQUATE level for annual bluegrass should still be provided at the usual rate of one pound of available nitrogen per one thousand square feet per growing month.

It should also be noted that any program that delivers INADEQUATE spring and fall nitrogen fertilization will decrease turf tolerance to heat and drought stress, thus predisposing it to Curvularia outbreaks.

------------------------------

Quickly available nitrogen sources ―

As a preventive measure against Curvularia, quickly–available sources of nitrogen should be avoided.

This is because the use of quickly–available sources can produce « surges of growth » that will make the turf susceptible to Curvularia.

The rate of release of these sources usually varies from one to three weeks, depending on the product used.

For example, the estimated period of complete nitrogen release for soluble urea ( 46–0–0 ) is two to three weeks.

Urea is a component used in both granular and liquid fertilizers.

To minimize the rate at which urea is made available to turf, the fertilizer used must contain a HIGH PERCENTAGE OF SLOW–RELEASE NITROGEN.

------------------------------

Slow–release nitrogen sources ―

During the summer months, any granular fertilization program should include a HIGH LEVEL of slow–release nitrogen in every application.

The criteria for selecting slow–release nitrogen sources must be stringent.

It is recommended that these sources release, at most, fifty to fifty–five per cent of their nitrogen within the first four weeks.

This rate of release can be found in organic nitrogen, polymer–coated ureas, and urea–formaldehyde products.

Moreover, when choosing a fertilizer mixture for fairways, its composition must be of at least seventy–five per cent slow–release nitrogen.

For putting greens, one–hundred per cent is preferred.

------------------------------

Liquid nitrogen sources ―

During the summer months, using a liquid fertilizer program may be problematic.

Even so–called slow–release sources of liquid nitrogen may contain extremely high levels of urea.

------------------------------

Potassium fertilization ―

The benefits of potassium to turfgrass growth include improved hardiness against extremes, such as heat and drought, and improved resistance to diseases, including Curvularia.

Applying potassium is NOT effective once summer stress or disease occurs.

Potassium must be used PREVENTIVELY.

The spring use of potassium is a means of preparing turf to better resist HEAT and DROUGHT stress, the two factors that will predispose annual bluegrass to infections of Curvularia.

------------------------------

Nitrogen–to–potassium ratio ―

To ensure the highest degree of heat and drought resistance, some turf managers select fertilizers with a nitrogen–to–potassium ( N–K20 ) ratio of 1–to–1.

Others prefer a ratio based upon soil test results, or employ more CONVENTIONAL ratios, such as 2–to–1, or 3–to–1.

Some experts more precisely recommend the use of 1–to–1 ratios for high–sand soils and high–leaching conditions. Such conditions are usually found on putting greens.

Moreover, when the annual application of nitrogen exceeds 6 pounds per 1000 square feet, it is advised to use ratios of 1–to–0.75 or 1–to–0.50.

For 3 to 6 pounds of nitrogen per 1000 square feet per year, a ratio of 1–to–1 is advocated.

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

3. Herbicide Applications

Research has shown that the use of herbicides, such as 2,4–D, mecoprop, and dicamba may stimulate Bipolaris and Drechslera development.

Although no such research has been done with Curvularia, it is a safe assumption that this organism is also activated by these herbicides.

Therefore, the use of broad–leaved weed control products should be AVOIDED during the summer months.

If the use of such weed controls is deemed necessary, small areas should be sprayed as « tests » before implementing an overall herbicide program.

Moreover, areas that have historically been infected with Curvularia should be avoided altogether until fall.

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

4. Leaf Wetness and Irrigation Practices

------------------------------

Poor air circulation ―

Prolonged exposure of grass leaves to moisture, in combination with high temperatures, creates an ideal environment for Curvularia infection. High humidity weather and poor air circulation will result in moisture remaining on turf leaves for extended periods.

Air circulation may be impeded by the presence of NUMEROUS LARGE TREES very close to the turf area.

Therefore, large trees should NOT be planted within one–hundred feet of the perimeter of golf course putting greens. Such existing trees may need to be removed.

------------------------------

Mimicking symptoms of drought ―

It is often difficult to distinguish Curvularia from drought. In both cases, the turf appears thin and weak, and seems to be suffering from lack of water.

However, diseased turf will NOT recover with adequate or increased irrigation.

In fact, the opposite is likely to occur. Increased and untimely irrigation will aggravate the disease.

------------------------------

Irrigation practices ―

Irrigating late in the day tends to increase the incidence of Curvularia.

So too will light and frequent drenching.

Therefore, irrigation should be done early in the day, rather than late at night, to decrease the risk of Curvularia.

During hot weather, irrigation quantities should be MISERLY, BUT SUFFICIENT.

Moisture deficiency can be determined by the feel and appearance of the soil, or by the appearance of the turf.

For instance, a bluish leaf colour and drooping foliage indicate that moisture stress has been reached.

Obviously, turf should be irrigated just prior to this point; otherwise, wilting injury may occur.

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

5. Mis–diagnosis of Diseases and Insects

------------------------------

Problems of discernment from other diseases ―

Misidentification of a disease can lead to IMPROPER corrective action.

The following summer turf diseases produce symptoms that are similar to Curvularia ―

( 1 ) Anthracnose Leaf Blight.

( 2 ) Black Layer.

( 3 ) Summer Patch.

In fact, Curvularia will often infect annual bluegrass IN UNISON with Anthracnose Blight and Summer Patch.

This is why diagnosis of Curvularia and Summer Patch should always be performed with a MICROSCOPE.

------------------------------

Problems of discernment from insect pests ―

Annual bluegrass will be more susceptible to Curvularia with exposure not only to drought stress, but also to insect attack.

In fact, it may be difficult to distinguish Curvularia infection from drought injury or insect damage.

In the months of June, July, and August, two white grub larvae insects cause symptoms that are SIMILAR to Curvularia by chewing away at the roots of turf plants ―

( 1 ) Annual Bluegrass Weevil.

( 2 ) Black Turfgrass Ataenius.

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

6. Mowing Height

Obviously, the effect of any disease that begins by attacking leaves will be more devastating as mowing length is SHORTER.

When Curvularia is active, the mowing height must be raised to the MAXIMUM POSSIBLE LEVEL.

Short and frequent cutting must be stopped.

Additionally, turf that is subject to obvious heat and drought stress should NOT be mowed, especially not in the afternoon.

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

7. Soil Compaction and Mechanical Activities

------------------------------

Traffic ―

Annual bluegrass will be more prone to infections of Curvularia when its leaves are subjected to OPEN WOUNDS.

The frequent use of vehicles on turf, particularly during hot and dry weather, creates such avenues for disease attack. Maintenance equipment, and even golf cars, may have to be RESTRICTED from operating on turf areas.

Full prohibition may become an absolute necessity during hot and dry summer afternoons, when day–time temperatures peak.

------------------------------

Mechanical interventions ―

During the summer months, the UNTIMELY implementation of mechanical cultural practices may add unnecessarily to heat and drought stress, thus increasing the risks of Curvularia infection on annual bluegrass.

------------------------------

Mechanical interventions that constitute a HIGH–RISK injury include ―

( 1 ) core aeration,

( 2 ) heavy vehicle use,

( 3 ) soil topdressing,

( 4 ) triplex greens mowing, and

( 5 ) verti–cutting.

------------------------------

Mechanical interventions that represent a LOW–RISK injury include ―

( 1 ) arrow–head aeration on fairways ( i.e. Aer–Way ),

( 2 ) conditioning of golf course putting greens with groomers,

( 3 ) light–weight fairway mowing,

( 4 ) manual greens mowing,

( 5 ) slicing aeration,

( 6 ) solid–tine aeration of greens, and

( 7 ) spiking aeration.

------------------------------

Aeration practices ―

An INADEQUATE core aeration program in the preceding spring and fall, will WEAKEN turf resistance to heat and drought stress.

Likewise, previously INADEQUATE spring and fall core aeration will also render turf LESS ABLE to tolerate summer heat and drought stress.

Such stress can predispose turf to Curvularia infections on annual bluegrass.

Force Of Nature presents THE WHOLE TRUTH FROM AN INDEPENDENT PERSPECTIVE from National Organization Responding Against Huje that seek to harm or misinform the Green Space Industry (NORAHG). It is a series of Reports destined for the Green Space Industry, the Environmental Terror Movement, Governments, and the Media, nationwide across Canada, the United States, and overseas. This Report has been developed for the education and entertainment of the reader by providing TECHNICAL INFORMATION WITH COMMENTARY. The neutrality of the Report might be disputed.

The information presented in this Report is for preliminary planning only. Before making a final decision, the turf manager is expected to obtain trusted expert advice from extension specialists, local distributors and/or agronomists. All decisions must take into account the prevailing growing conditions, the time of year, and the established management practices

All products mentioned in this Report should be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s directions, and according to provincial, state, or federal law. For the official advantages, benefits, features, precautions, and restrictions concerning any product, the turf manager must rely only on the information furnished by the manufacturer. The mention of trade names does not constitute a guarantee or a warranty.

All information, excerpts, and pictures contained in this Report were found somewhere on the Internet, and may be considered in the public domain, serving one of the following purposes ― archive, education, promotion, publicity, or press release. Force Of Nature is TOTALLY INDEPENDENT of any trade association or business operating within the Green Space Industry. Don’t thank us. It’s a public service. And we are glad to do it.

Force Of Nature is the brainchild of William H Gathercole and his entourage. Mr Gathercole is a principal founder of the Modern Professional Lawn Care Industry in both Ontario and Quebec. He holds a degree in Horticulture from the University of Guelph, and another pure and applied science degree from McGill University. He has worked in virtually all aspects of the Green Space Industry, including golf, professional lawn care, and distribution. Mr Gathercole has supervised, consulted, programmed, and/or overseen the successful execution of hundreds of thousands of management operations in the urban landscape. He has trained, instructed, and advised thousands of turf managers and technicians. Mr Gathercole has also been an agricultural agronomist. Mr Gathercole is personally credited for crafting the Exception Status that has allowed the Golf Industry to avoid being subjected to the prohibition of pest control products. He is also the creator of the signs that are now used for posting after application. Mr Gathercole is now retired from Force Of Nature, although his name continues to appear as the founder.

They appeared « splotchy », « mottled », and even « brown » to television viewers of the United States Open [ Golf Championship ].

One superintendent [ ... ] described the greens as looking like « leopard skin ».

Pat Gross, [ Enviro–Maniac ] Director of the Southwest Region for the United States Golf Association ( USGA ), wrote an article in a USGA news-letter to try and put out the fire.

[ Enviro–Maniac ] Gross admitted that the mostly Poa annua greens might have been « unacceptable to many superintendents and golfers ».

He also wrote « cosmetics and appearance were not high on the priority list ».

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

Tiger Woods publicly CONDEMNEDthe greens at Pebble Beach Golf Links

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

Perfectly Imperfect

June 28th, 2010

Christopher S. Gray Senior

Golfdom Insider

Selected and adapted excerpts

Anyone looking for a dark–green, perfectly manicured golf course for this year’s national championship came away disappointed.

The fairways and approaches held large brown areas in them, the Poa annua greens were STRIKINGLY DISCOLORED and ROLLED BUMPY in spots, and the course yielded an overall BROWN PATINA at Pebble Beach Golf Links for the United States Open [ Golf Championship ] earlier this month.

In short, anyone looking for a dark–green and perfectly–manicured golf course for this year’s national championship became DISAPPOINTED.

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

Enviro–Maniac JUNK Greensdiscoloured, bumpy, and brown

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

But this year, [ people ] focused on criticizing the SPLOTCHY Poa annua greens at Pebble Beach, which GLIMMERED NEARLY EVERY SHADE OF GREEN AND KHAKI on the color wheel, possibly because they rarely ever see these conditions on nationally televised golf tournaments.

More likely, however, it was because Tiger Woods CONDEMNED them after playing his first round.

And when Tiger speaks, the whole golf world listens.

According to Tiger Woods ―

« It was so bouncy out there. The greens are just awful. It is what it is. »

United States Golf Association Executive Director [ and Enviro–Maniac ] David Fay told the press that Woods was wrong about his comments ―

« He’s entitled to his opinion, but he’s off on his facts. These putting surfaces have never been better.[ ?!?! ] »

At the press conference, prior to the beginning of the tournament, new USGA President [ and Enviro–Maniac ] Jim Hyler celebrated the Pebble Beach commitment to sustainable policies, ranging from its water reclamation project to its Audubon International certification status.

According to [ Enviro–Maniac ] Hyler ―

« They are an industry leader, and we support the efforts that Pebble Beach has made to incorporate environmentally sustainable practices on their property for many years. »

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

In the year 2010 ...

The game of golf is a flourishingMULTI-BILLION DOLLAR INDUSTRY

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

In the year 2020 ...

Large numbers of golf courses willbecome ABANDONED WASTE DUMPS

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

Enviro–Maniac–Activistswant GO BROWN

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

Enviro–Maniac–Activistswant JUNK Golf Courses

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

Go BrownEnviro–TerrorSPREADSthroughout theGolf Industry !

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

The Annihilation of the Golf Industry !

In the year 2020 ...

The game of golf is NO LONGER a flourishing Billion–Dollar–Industry.

Pest control products are prohibited NATIONALLY.

Integrated Pest Management and Green Alternatives are FAILURES.

The ENTIRE Golf Industry has its pesticide Exception Status REVOKED.

Pest problems are TOTALLY UNMANAGEABLE.

The labour now needed for pesticide–free maintenance is STAGGERING.

The concept of Brown Is Beautiful is also a FAILURE.

Golf facilities can no longer offer BEAUTIFUL RESTFUL Green Spaces.

Golfers NO LONGER want to play on BROWN DEPRESSING courses.

Playing conditions are DISMAL at virtually ALL golf facilities.

Only the RICH ELITE golfer can afford to play on GREEN HEALTHY courses.

Up to seventy per cent of golfers ABANDON the sport.

All golf facilities are considered as WORTHLESS investments.

No one can buy or sell a golf facility, and owners are FRANTIC.

Golf facilities can NO LONGER AFFORD to pay the property taxes.

Sixty per cent of all golf clubs CLOSE DOWN or go BANKRUPT.

Superintendents are NO LONGER NECESSARY or NEEDED.

The Multi–Billion–Dollar–Golf–Industry is ANNIHILATED.

Large numbers of golf facilities are ABANDONED WASTE DUMPS.

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

Go Brown Is a Poor Message

April 2010

Dan Dinelli

On Course Magazine

Just when the world is appreciating the concept of « green », our industry seems to want to « Go Brown ! »

When it comes to golf, the newly coined phrase « Brown Is Beautiful » concerns me.

The idea is being sold based on the assumption that « brown » turf requires fewer inputs, saves money, is better for the environment, and plays better.

A few key issues will drive this topic for some time to come.

--------------------------------

Golf Course Grooming

The industry is trying to break itself from the « Augusta Effect », where all plants are growing beautifully, and the look of perfection is seen in all elements within the landscape.

« Over–Grooming Is Over Spending » is the phrase often associated with Augusta–like conditions.

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

The reasons to Go Brown may be theapplication of inputs, the expense in over–seeding dormant turf, and the conservation,quality and restriction of water

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

Some golfers enjoy the beautified landscape enhanced with flowers and shrubs.

Others feel it DETRACTS from the PURITY OF THE GAME.

The fact is ― most budgets CANNOT AFFORD the intensity of care golf–scapes like Augusta’s require.

--------------------------------

Reasons To Go Brown

In many areas around the country, the drive to « Go Brown » is about water conservation and restrictions.

In other areas, the concern is water quality and the application of inputs, such as nitrogen and phosphorus.

Many scientific studies have concluded that INPUTS, when used properly, POSE EXTREMELY LOW RISKS ON TURF.

Bentgrass tolerates some brief level of dormancy, but typically dies under the added stress of putting green conditions.

The variability in tolerance to stress, and seasonal hardiness within turf species, is confusing to the non–professional.

Much of what a turf professional learns is directly related to PREVENTING BROWN, STRESSED TURF during the growing season.

It has been documented that HEALTHY, GROWING TURF IS THE BEST DEFENCE AGAINST MANY PESTS, DISEASES, WEEDS, AND WEAR.

Typically, the grasses used in our climate on greens, tees, and fairways are Poa annua ( considered a weed by many because it lacks winter and summer hardiness and invades the turf with its prolific seed production ) and bentgrass.

We try to favour bentgrass because it is a hardier species that tolerates weather extremes ― better than Poa annua ― but Poa annua eventually becomes part of the turfgrass stand.

These grasses, when starved for both water and nutrients, BECOME STRESSED AND VULNERABLE TO SOME POTENTIALLY DEVASTATING DISEASES.

We are reminded of this from time to time, during stressful growing conditions.

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

Go Brown turf that is subjected to stresswill NOT be able to tolerate wear from play

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

Rumours quickly circulate whenever turf dies in key playing areas at a course.

USGA provided the world with an example of its failed Enviro–Maniac policies by converting Pebble Beach Golf Links into a GO BROWN JUNK Golf Course during the United States Open Golf Championship in June 2010.

They presented the prestigious, iconic, and otherwise beautiful, golf course in a PLAIN BROWN PAPER BAG.

« It was so bouncy out there. The greens are just awful. It is what it is. »

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

Sustainable Moment :Efficient Turfgrass Managementwith Ron Dodson

GCSAA TV Sustainable Moments

Transcript from the Video

Retrieved on July 28th, 2010

I think a SUSTAINABLE GOLF ISSUE that a lot of people misunderstand is the fact that ...

... some people gravitate towards believing that brown is better than green.

And ... I think they are missing the boat on that ... just a tad.

That is an icon.

That is an image that sort of people might gravitate to.

But, it is not whether grass is brown, or whether it is green, that actually makes a golf course more sustainable.

It is EFFICIENT golf course management.

So I think a lot think that if you have brown golf ...

... you have backed off the water

... and therefore the grass has turned brown

... and therefore, we are more sustainable.

But, there are a lot of positive benefits to properly managed turfgrass which, in fact, may be a shade more green than brown ...

... as it relates to the respiration of turfgrass

... of the ability of healthy, thick, vigorous turf to actually sequester carbon

... or to hold run–off, and so forth.

So, the SUSTAINABLE topic is NOT to believe that you are a MORE SUSTAINABLE golf course if you are brown, other than green.

It is EFFICIENT MANAGEMENT OF WATER ...

... putting the right amount of water in the right locations, at the right times, is MORE important than just focusing on turning your water off.

So ...

... efficiency

... WATER EFFICIENCY

... ENERGY EFFICIENCY

... ECONOMIC EFFICIENCY

... that is what we ought to be focused on.

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

Background Information from an Independent Perspective

In 1987, the U.S. National Audubon Society was experiencing financial problems ― the organization had a 3½–million–dollar budget short–fall. Consequently, budgets were cut, and employees were terminated.

One of the terminated employees was Ronald G. Dodson, who had been Regional Vice–President since 1982.

Dodson went on to revive the Audubon Society of the State of New York State, and launched a registration program where the owners of backyards, corporate properties, golf courses, and school grounds, paid him to become recognized in the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary System.

According to Dodson ―

« I decided that the approach we had been taking for the last twenty–five years was a bit old, and it was time for at least one environmental group to take a new partnership approach to working with people, as opposed to yelling and screaming at them all the time. »

Prior to Audubon, Dodson graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Wildlife Biology from Oakland City University, and a Masters Degree in Natural Resource Management from Indiana State University.

Dodson actually attended Indiana State University on a golf scholarship.

Dodson was ( and continues to be ) an avid golf player. His handicap now is between 12 and 15.

According to Dodson ―

« To me, golf is a game that is played in nature ― not over the top of it. It’s the only sport that you are supposed to be playing in nature ― not in a sanitized stadium. You get a bad bounce, get a bad roll, you hit a rock, etc … ― that’s part of the game. If we sanitize these courses to become what I call television studios, where the pros play on TV [ … ] that’s not the game. That’s some caricature of the game. »

In 1991, Dodson concluded an agreement with United States Golf Association ( USGA ).

A special program was to help golf clubs manage and build with a new approach. Dodson also pocketed a healthy contribution from USGA, and created Audubon International. Within one year, one–hundred–and–fifty golf facilities had enrolled in the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses.

Club certification under this program was ( and still is ) a multi–step process, which includes ― pest management through cultural practices, water conservation, and wildlife habitats.

According to Dodson ―

« Our goal is to educate golf course superintendents ― not regulate them. Many states don’t require golf course developers to file environmental impact statements. So, just to meet our requirements for certification, many courses are doing more than what local, state, or federal agencies need. »

Today, Dodson is firmly in charge as Founder and President of Audubon International, and President of International Sustainability Council.

Dodson is a well–regarded advocate for sustainable development in golf.

Observers admit that Dodson has been impressive !

He has been astoundingly honest and consistent.

Dodson represents virtually the only bright spot in the environmental movement.

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

Brown is indicative of UNHEALTHY,UNPLAYABLE and UNDESIRABLE turf

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

William H. Gathercole and Norah G

National Organization Responding Against Huje that TERRORIZE, HARM, and THREATEN the Green Space Industry (NORAHG)

Force Of Nature presents THE WHOLE TRUTH FROM AN INDEPENDENT PERSPECTIVE from National Organization Responding Against Huje that seek to harm the Green Space Industry (NORAHG). It is a series of Reports destined for the Green Space Industry, the Environmental Terror Movement, Governments, and the Media, nationwide across Canada, the United States, and overseas. The information presented in Force Of Nature has been developed for the education and entertainment of the reader by providing a sequence of historical events WITH COMMENTARY. The neutrality of these Reports might be disputed.

Huje is a term used to describe Enviro Maniac Activists that routinely concoct FEAR MONGERING, FRAUDULENT LIES, MISCONCEPTIONS, COERCION, THREATS, DECEPTIONS, TERROR, and PARANOID CONSPIRACIES that are DESIGNED to SCAM and DECEIVE the public into believing that families are in some NON–EXISTENT danger with conventional pest control products. Huje also SCAM and DECEIVE Government Officials into the NEEDLESS, SENSELESS, and MALICIOUS prohibition of FEDERALLY LEGAL, SCIENTIFICALLY SAFE, TOTALLY IRREPLACEABLE, and ABSOLUTELY INDISPENSABLE conventional pest control products.

All information, excerpts, and pictures contained in this Report were found somewhere on the Internet, and may be considered in the public domain, serving one of the following purposes ― archive, education, promotion, publicity, or press release. The events, characters, companies, and organizations, depicted in this Report are not always fictitious. Any similarity to actual persons, living or dead, may not be coincidental. Force Of Nature is TOTALLY INDEPENDENT of any trade association or business operating within the Green Space Industry. Don’t thank us. It’s a public service. And we are glad to do it.

Force Of Nature, and its various incarnations, is the brainchild of William H. Gathercole and his entourage. Mr. Gathercole is a principal FOUNDER of the Modern Professional Lawn Care Industry in BOTH Ontario and Quebec. He holds a degree in Horticulture from the UNIVERSITY OF GUELPH, and another pure and applied science degree from McGILL UNIVERSITY. He has worked in virtually all aspects of the Green Space Industry, including GOLF, PROFESSIONAL LAWN CARE, and CHEMICAL INDUSTRY, and has served in public affairs, workplace safety, and environmental compliance. Mr. Gathercole has supervised, consulted, programmed, and/or overseen the successful and safe execution of HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS of pest control applications in the urban landscape. He has trained, instructed, and consulted with THOUSANDS of turf managers and technicians. Mr. Gathercole has also been an agricultural agronomist. For many years, Mr. Gathercole was a contributing columnist for TURF & Recreation Magazine, Canada’s Turf and Grounds Maintenance Authority. Mr. Gathercole is now retired from Force Of Nature, although his name continues to appear as the FOUNDER. Mr. Gathercole is personally credited for crafting the Golf Industry Exception Status, that endures to this day. He is also the creator of the signs that are now used for posting after application. His vast knowledge of our long journey with Environmental Issues is UNDENIABLE ― hopefully ! For FIFTEEN YEARS, the strategies designed and implemented by Mr. Gathercole and his colleagues guaranteed the control of Environmental Terror for the entire Modern Green Space Industry across Canada. Mr. Gathercole’s involvement in Environmental Issues reached a fevered pitch in the 1990s, when he orchestrated, with his colleagues, legal action against the Forces of Environmental Evil in the Town of Hudson, Quebec. Mr. Gathercole is the ONLY TRUE RELIABLE WITNESS of the Hudson Affair.

Mr. Gathercole and his entourage have followed the evolution of ENVIRONMENTAL TERRORISM for over a quarter century. Through Force Of Nature, Enviro Maniac Activist Huje are identified on the basis of their statements, activities, affiliations, and whereabouts. Even though each Enviro Maniac Culprit is a misguided adversary, each still deserves our respect. The use of the terms Maniac, Culprit, Terrorist, or Basterd are not accusations of any legal wrong doing. Force Of Nature is simply holding Enviro Maniac Activists accountable for conspiring to change public policies that TERRORIZE, HARM, and THREATEN the Green Space Industry. Their pretentious prohibitionist rants have created LOSS OF REVENUES, BUSINESS FAILURES, BANKRUPTCY, and UNEMPLOYMENT, inflicting DESPAIR and DESTITUTION for THOUSANDS of hapless victims throughout the Green Space Industry. The DEPRAVED INDIFFERENCE of Maniac Culprit Terrorist Basterd Huje is viewed as a form of TERROR, HARM, and THREAT against the Green Space Industry.

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

My dead friend lived on a golf course ...
and played soccer on heavily sprayed fields ...
his exposure level to pesticides was colossal

March 12th, 2010

Letter to the Editor

Cranbrook Daily Townsman

British Columbia, Canada

Selected and adapted excerpts

STATEMENT BY ENVIRO–MANIAC–ACTIVIST ─

Pesticide bylaw

I have been watching the cosmetic pesticide debate in British Columbia with great interest for about three years, especially in recent times as more and more communities adopt cosmetic pesticide bylaws.

I hope the good people of this community get what they deserve, one less TOXIN in their environment. [ ?!?! ]

My real interest in pesticides started when I was a young adult.

My best friend died of LEUKEMIA; he was an elite soccer player, and he was stricken by LEUKEMIA in his prime.

Looking back now, and knowing what I know about the relationship between pesticide and LEUKEMIA, it makes sense. [ ?!?! ]

My friend lived on a GOLF COURSE, he practiced soccer on it at night, and he walked across it each day to school.

He lived and breathed soccer, playing on heavily sprayed fields from the age of seven right on through until the end of university.

Spraying was a common practice, but now we know better. [ ?!?! ]

His EXPOSURE level to pesticides was COLOSSAL. [ ?!?! ]

Knowing what we know now, why is it so hard to see ?

CANCER rates are SKYROCKETING in North America, [ ?!?! ] and more and more environmental factors are being exposed, and thank goodness. [ ?!?! ]

Leukemia is a cancer of the blood or bone marrow characterized by an abnormal increase of blood cells, usually leukocytes ( white blood cells ).

NO SINGLE KNOWN CAUSE for all of the different types of leukemia exists.

The known causes, which are not generally factors within the control of the average person, account for relatively few cases.

Every year, over 250,000 children and adults around the world develop some form of leukemia, and over 200,000 die from it.

Presumably, these victims lived on a golf course and played soccer.

NOT !

Newton’s friend DID NOT develop leukemia because he lived on a golf course or played on a sports field.

As an Enviro–Maniac–Activist who operates an Environmental–Terror–Organization, Newton basically IGNORES SOUND SCIENCE because it is CONVENIENT for her to do so !

NOT ONE pest control product registered in Canada causes cancer.

Does Newton have ANY expertise in the field of pest control products ?

NO !

Consequently, the opinions expressed by Newton are TOTALLY VALUELESS and UTTERLY WORTHLESS.

Newton also claims that cancer rates are SKYROCKETING.

WRONG !

--------------------------------

Cancer Is Declining

According to the Cancer Statistics 2010 report issued by the American Cancer Society ( ACS ), cancer incidence rates and the number of deaths due to cancer continue to DECLINE in the United States.

The incidence of cancer has ...

● decreased by 1.3 per cent per year from 2000 to 2006 in men

● decreased by 0.5 per cent per year from 1998 to 2006 in women

Cancer death rates have ...

● dropped 21 per cent since 1991 among men

● dropped 12 per cent since 1992 among women

Presumably, these men and women do not live on a golf course, or play soccer.

--------------------------------

Facts About the Golf Industry

There are an estimated 6 million Canadian golfers.

Presumably, these people will imminently die from leukemia.

NOT !

It must be recognized that the Golf Industry has been EXTREMELY GENEROUS in the fight against cancer.

Each year there are at least 25,000 charity events hosted at Canadian golf clubs.

Using conservative estimates, these events raise more than 439 million dollars for charitable causes across Canada.

The Golf Industry can boast that it has SAVED LIVES, and PREVENTED CANCER, with its charity events.

Enviro–Maniac–Activists, like Newton, HAVE NOT SAVED A SINGLE LIFE or PREVENTED A SINGLE CASE OF CANCER with their prohibition conspiracies.

--------------------------------

Facts About Sarah Newton

Newton operates the North Columbia Environmental Society, an Environmental–Terror–Organization located in Revelstoke, a city in South–Eastern British Columbia, Canada.

Newton and her Enviro–Maniac buddies have infested the city administration through the DISGRACEFUL, BIASED, and SUBVERSIVE Environmental Advisory Committee that LAUGHABLY evaluates the need for prohibition of pest control products.

This committee is a mere POLITICAL SHIELD for the Environmental–Terror–Movement, and is composed of people with absolutely NO expertise in matters concerning pest control products.

Newton and her Enviro–Maniac buddies are attempting to control key positions in the City of Revelstoke with the objective to successfully PROHIBIT pest control products that are FEDERALLY LEGAL, SCIENTIFICALLY SAFE, and TOTALLY IRREPLACEABLE.

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

We defend the industry,
whatever the cost may be

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬

William H. Gathercole and Norah G

National Organization Responding Against Huje that TERRORIZE, HARM, and THREATEN the Green Space Industry (NORAHG)

Force Of Nature presents THE WHOLE TRUTH FROM AN INDEPENDENT PERSPECTIVE from National Organization Responding Against Huje that seek to harm the Green Space Industry (NORAHG). It is a series of reports destined for the Green Space Industry, the Environmental Terror Movement, Governments, and the Media, nationwide across Canada, the United States, and overseas. The information presented in Force Of Nature has been developed for the education and entertainment of the reader by providing a sequence of historical events WITH COMMENTARY. The neutrality of these reports might be disputed.

Huje is a term used to describe Enviro Maniac Activists that routinely concoct FEAR MONGERING, FRAUDULENT LIES, MISCONCEPTIONS, COERCION, THREATS, DECEPTIONS, TERROR, and PARANOID CONSPIRACIES that are DESIGNED to SCAM and DECEIVE the public into believing that families are in some NON–EXISTENT danger with conventional pest control products. Huje also SCAM and DECEIVE Government Officials into the NEEDLESS, SENSELESS, and MALICIOUS prohibition of FEDERALLY LEGAL, SCIENTIFICALLY SAFE, TOTALLY IRREPLACEABLE, and ABSOLUTELY INDISPENSABLE conventional pest control products.

All information, excerpts, and pictures contained in this document were found somewhere on the Internet, and may be considered in the public domain, serving one of the following purposes ― archive, education, promotion, publicity, or press release. The events, characters, companies, and organizations, depicted in this document are not always fictitious. Any similarity to actual persons, living or dead, may not be coincidental. Force Of Nature is TOTALLY INDEPENDENT of any trade association or business operating within the Green Space Industry. Don’t thank us. It’s a public service. And we are glad to do it.

Force Of Nature is the brainchild of William H. Gathercole and his entourage. Mr. Gathercole is a principal FOUNDER of the Modern Professional Lawn Care Industry in BOTH Ontario and Quebec. He holds a degree in Horticulture from the UNIVERSITY OF GUELPH, and another pure and applied science degree from McGILL UNIVERSITY. He has worked in virtually all aspects of the Green Space Industry, including GOLF, PROFESSIONAL LAWN CARE, and CHEMICAL INDUSTRY, and has served in public affairs, workplace safety, and environmental compliance. Mr. Gathercole has supervised, consulted, programmed, and/or overseen the successful and safe execution of HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS of pest control applications in the urban landscape. He has trained, instructed, and consulted with THOUSANDS of turf managers and technicians. Mr. Gathercole has also been an agricultural agronomist. For many years, Mr. Gathercole was a contributing columnist for TURF & Recreation Magazine, Canada’s Turf and Grounds Maintenance Authority. Mr. Gathercole is now retired from Force Of Nature, although his name continues to appear as the founder. Mr. Gathercole is personally credited for crafting the Golf Industry Exception Status, that endures to this day. He is also the creator of the signs that are now used for posting after application. His vast knowledge of our long journey with Environmental Issues is UNDENIABLE ― hopefully ! For FIFTEEN YEARS, the strategies designed and implemented by Mr. Gathercole and his colleagues guaranteed the control of Environmental Terror for the entire Modern Green Space Industry across Canada. Mr. Gathercole’s involvement in Environmental Issues reached a fevered pitch in the 1990s, when he orchestrated, with his colleagues, legal action against the Forces of Environmental Evil in the Town of Hudson, Quebec. Mr. Gathercole is the ONLY TRUE RELIABLE WITNESS of the Hudson Affair.

Mr. Gathercole and his entourage have followed the evolution of ENVIRONMENTAL TERRORISM for over a quarter century. Through Force Of Nature, Enviro Maniac Activist Huje are identified on the basis of their statements, activities, affiliations, and whereabouts. Even though each Enviro Maniac Culprit is a misguided adversary, each still deserves our respect. The use of the terms Maniac, Culprit, Terrorist, or Basterd are not accusations of any legal wrong doing. Force Of Nature is simply holding Enviro Maniac Activists accountable for conspiring to change public policies that TERRORIZE, HARM, and THREATEN the Green Space Industry. Their pretentious prohibitionist rants have created LOSS OF REVENUES, BUSINESS FAILURES, BANKRUPTCY, and UNEMPLOYMENT, inflicting DESPAIR and DESTITUTION for THOUSANDS of hapless victims throughout the Green Space Industry. The DEPRAVED INDIFFERENCE of Maniac Culprit Terrorist Basterd Huje is viewed as a form of TERROR, HARM, and THREAT against the Green Space Industry.

THE WISDOM OF HEROES SPEAKING OUT AGAINST ENVIRO-TERROR -- Get Off Our grASS -- Science or Hype -- Consultation Is Referendum–In–Disguise -- False Perceptions -- Misleading the Public With Fear -- 2010